Probably too late to change anything, but please share your thoughts our our upcoming trip (Sep 22-Oct 11)

Exploring Italy: An Enthusiastic Retiree’s Itinerary and Reflections

Planning an extensive trip through Italy can be both exciting and overwhelming, especially when aiming to balance sightseeing, cultural immersion, and personal interests. As seasoned travelers in our late 60s, we recognize the challenges of fitting everything into a limited timeframe, but we’re committed to making the most of this once-in-a-lifetime journey. We’d appreciate any insights or suggestions from fellow travelers to enhance our plans.

Personal Significance

A key aspect of this trip is reconnecting with our roots. We will visit several small towns in the Abruzzo region—Tarranta Peligna and San Pietro Avellana—where my wife’s great-grandparents originated. She has a passionate interest in genealogy, and meeting distant cousins in those areas has been a lifelong goal. This personal connection adds a meaningful layer to our travels, blending exploration with family history.

Itinerary Overview

September 23-25: Venice

• Arrival in Venice late morning on September 23.
• Spend September 24 exploring iconic sites like the Basilica di San Marco and Doge’s Palace, with pre-booked tickets to avoid long lines.
• September 25 offers a morning in Venice before catching a train to Florence.

September 26-27: Florence and Surrounds

• Arrival in Florence, where we’ve secured tickets for the Uffizi Gallery and the Accademia Gallery.
• On September 27, pick up a rental car at Florence station and head toward Montepulciano, possibly stopping in Siena (recommendations welcomed).
• Check into an agriturismo near Montepulciano for a rustic experience.

September 28-30: Tuscany Adventures

• Spend September 28 exploring Montepulciano’s charming streets.
• September 29 follows a Rick Steves-inspired route—visiting Bagno Vignoni, Pienza, Monticchiello, with opportunities to visit local wineries and discover scenic spots.
• September 30 remains flexible for spontaneous plans or hidden gems discovered along the way.

October 1-3: Abruzzo Region

• Drive to Tarranta Peligna on October 1, a journey estimated at 4-5 hours, with potential stops en route.
• The following days will be dedicated to exploring the area around the small towns, with a particular focus on genealogy—visiting cemeteries and local sites to connect with our family history.

**October 4